POLICE are appealing for witnesses after a 25-year-old woman was assaulted in Alton during the early hours of Sunday morning (January 21) by five women shouting homophobic abuse.

The incident happened between 12.30am and 1.30am in the Market Square when the victim suffered scratches to her face, neck and abdomen and bruising to her face.

The group of women are described as being in their early 20s to mid-30s, three had blonde hair, two had dark hair, and one was wearing a red puffer jacket.

Officers investigating the assault would like to speak to anyone who may have witnessed what happened or who knows anyone involved.

Anyone with information should call the police on 101, quoting reference number 44180026398, or Crimestoppers on 0800 555111.